Forbidden City, Beijing

Forbidden City, Beijing

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the imperial palace of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, a grand-standing symbol of the might and stateliness of their court.

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the imperial palace of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, a grand-standing symbol of the might and stateliness of their court. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exemplifies traditional Chinese palatial architecture. Home to twenty-four emperors, the largest and best-preserved palace in the world was off-limits to commoners in the past, which led to it being called Forbidden City.

Surrounded by a 52 metre wide moat and 7.9 metre high city walls, the complex has 980 buildings spread over 180 acres. As you enter, you will encounter the enormous spectacular courtyard, which is the beginning of an entirely different world from the rest of the city. Despite the transformation of the city around it, the Forbidden City remains mercifully relatively untouched. Get there when the gates open (around 8.30AM) if you want to explore the courtyards in relative peace.

Almost all buildings have glazed tile roofs in yellow, the color of the emperor. The sloping ridges of building roofs are decorated with a line of statuettes led by a man riding a phoenix and followed by an imperial dragon. The outer palace consisting of the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Complete Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony was the hub of political activity. The inner palace consisting of the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Union and Peace and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility served as the residence of the emperor. Only two-fifths of the area of the palace is opened but more sections open all the time. Wandering to the right or left can yield some beautiful secluded courtyards.

There are an astounding 1,807,558 artefacts in the permanent collection, with rare and valuable works of art including paintings, ceramics, seals, stelas, sculptures, inscribed wares, bronze wares and enamel objects. This is truly the spot to appreciate the might and grandeur of the Imperial Chinese court during the height of its power in the Ming and Qing dynasties. There are gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs.